An incident report sent to us from Barrow Brain and Spine Physical Therapy in Arizona sheds light on potential issues surrounding freedom of speech and patient rights in the West. The account comes from an email sent by a patient to our news outlet, detailing an unsettling encounter.
The patient recounted their conversation, stating, “I was doing a physical therapy session in which I was asked how I slept… I replied I didn’t sleep well at all, because they have just cut off food, water, electricity to the Palestinians.” However, this simple remark drew an unexpected and intense reaction.
An incident report sent to us from Barrow Brain and Spine Physical Therapy in Arizona sheds light on potential issues surrounding freedom of speech and patient rights in the West. The account comes from an email sent by a patient to our news outlet, detailing an unsettling encounter.
The patient recounted their conversation, stating, “I was doing a physical therapy session in which I was asked how I slept… I replied I didn’t sleep well at all, because they have just cut off food, water, electricity to the Palestinians.” However, this simple remark drew an unexpected and intense reaction.
According to the email, an employee named Ryan Bays responded to the mention of Palestine by allegedly confronting the patient: “This man Ryan marched over at the word Palestine and proceeded to yell and harass me in front of the whole office, the patients, and workers. He told me I’m not allowed to mention Palestine ever again and that I offend people when I do.”
The situation escalated with the patient being given an ultimatum. They described Ryan’s stance: ”He asked me to leave if I did not want to follow his policy of not saying Palestine.” Feeling targeted and uncomfortable, the patient left, cancelling all subsequent appointments. They expressed their distress, emphasizing, “I really need medical care there and I want him to have consequences.”
As of now, Barrow Brain and Spine Physical Therapy has not issued a statement regarding the matter. We will update our readers as more details emerge. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for respect and understanding in all professional settings.
